The majority of drivers caught out by winter driving conditions this week in the Queenstown Lakes District were predominantly local drivers, QLDC operations manager Chris Hawker said.

Despite signage on the Crown Range Road warning that chains must be carried and further signage advising that chains must be fitted, near the summit, in excess of 12 vehicles found themselves in trouble on Monday morning.

"The Crown Range Road is the highest mountain pass in New Zealand and winter conditions now apply. Add to that mix, the fact that conditions can change, literally within minutes. It is irresponsible at this time of year to attempt the pass unless you are carrying chains," Mr Hawker said.

Of the vehicles Mr Hawker encountered on the pass, only two had chains fitted, despite the warning.

"This is about educating our local drivers and ensuring our visiting drivers also have the message," Mr Hawker said.

The Council was considering a number of initiatives to get the message across.

"In addition to the early morning radio update from our roading contractor, Works Infrastructure, we are looking at new and improved winter signage and a campaign to target drivers," Mr Hawker said. Another option that drivers should consider during winter was the round trip via the Kawarau Gorge.

"At the end of the day this trip adds another 15 minutes, on certain days of the winter, that could be 15 minutes you save yourself the trouble of fitting chains," Mr Hawker said.

Winter was now here, it was up to individual drivers whether or not they wanted to be a statistic.

"Driving to the winter conditions now applies across the entire district, people need to be aware and take care. Neither speed nor thoughtlessness is a defense against dangerous or careless driving," Mr Hawker said.

ENDS

For further information please contact Chris Hawker 03 441 0499 or 0274 364 455.

By: Tamah